How to Make the Best Salad Ever

Posted on June 1, 2017

Ok, so there are many different opinions when we talk about the “best” things, but this salad combo is honestly hard to beat. Packed with essential life-giving greens, lean proteins, and not to mention flavor; this salad is simple, delicious and will leave you feeling refueled and satisfied at lunch time. Try it for yourself and let me know if you agree, this is the best salad ever.

1. Start with your Lettuce Base

These days, there are tons of different options at the grocery store for what kind of lettuce you’d prefer, from a light butter lettuce or romaine to a hearty spring mix. The mix I get is from the store is by Earthbound Organic, and contains: Organic baby lettuces (red & green Romaine), red & green oak leaf, red leaf, lollo rosa, tango, butter lettuce, organic red & green chard, organic mizuna, organic baby spinach, organic arugula, organic radicchio, organic parsley, organic dill, organic cilantro. This combination is packed with healthy herbs and makes the perfect base for a wholesome salad.

2. Pick your protein

Your protein will help you decide what other toppings you will combine. Chicken, steak, fish or tofu are the most common. Grilled chicken, tuna, and salmon are usually my go-to, but you can decide which protein to choose to make your best salad ever.

3. Add something sweet

Golden raisins, dried cranberries, and goji berries are great options for something sweet, but not juicy like a fruit. Strawberries, blueberries, and tangerines can be a great addition if you’re looking to make a refreshing summer salad. Adding a roasted sweet potato or squash can make it much more hearty and add some much-needed carbs and sweetness to your best salad ever.

4. Something Salty

This part here is where you add a lot of your flavor for you best salad ever. The perfect salad will combine sweet and salty that matches your protein. Bacon bits and croutons can make it truly delicious, but can also add some unwanted calories. My best salad uses roasted slivered almonds. Sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or your favorite cheese can do the trick. Kalamata olives are go-to of mine, they’re healthy, salty and will spice up any salad recipe. Try a goat feta crumble for a healthy and delicious option. There are also many dairy free cheeses out there for those who typically opt out of cheese. I definitely recommend not skipping the queso if you want to make the best salad ever.

5. Something crunchy

Adding something crunchy to your perfect salad recipe is what will make this salad satisfying and not boring to eat. Adding baby some fresh veggies, seeds, nuts, puffed quinoa are all healthy and delicious options for your perfect salad.

6. Something Creamy

Avocado on a salad is a must. It’s a great source of good fat, it’s creamy, and filling and oh-so-satisfying. A cheese or creamy dressing can also make your perfect salad creamy.

7. Dress it up

Decide ahead of time if you want a creamy dressing such as honey mustard ranch or something light like a vinaigrette. My best salad ever is a combination of the two. Regardless of what salad you prefer, the dressing can make or break it. For my a great homemade dressing, combine: apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, maple syrup, dijon mustard, olive oil, fresh pressed garlic, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme into a bullet or blender. Shake it up and top it on your best salad ever!

8. Add some spice

Course salt can work wonders for bringing out all the flavors you perfectly crafted for your best salad ever. Add the chef’s favorite Maldon salt or grind fresh pepper and garlic salt out of a shaker. I’ll even add some Cayenne pepper (just a pinch!) for a little kcick and to keep my metabolism boosted. This final touch can make the world of a difference!